Austin Family Caregiver Benefits

Caregiving can be hard, but the work you do is very vital to our society and way of life. The US population continues to age, and we need to care for our loved ones. Because of the increasing age population, you will find more and more support from non-profit groups, government programs, and health care systems. Helping caregivers is essential to continue this care because from time to time they need a break. You know how exhausting caregiving is, and you need to be at your best. Here are resources in Austin to support you.

The Alzheimer’s Association of Capital of Texas Chapter

The Austin chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Association offers local caregivers support through educational programs, support groups, and resources to find other local programs for families and patients. You can also find a library full of valuable resources about the disease. Here are some programs the Alzheimer’s Association offers.

You can schedule a variety of facilitator-led training programs to learn about the various stages of Alzheimer’s disease, including spotting early signs, early, middle, and late stages. There are also a variety of e-learning courses if those fit better in your schedule.

You can find support 24/7 by calling 800.272.3900 or visiting AlzConnected, an online support forum.

Alzheimer’s Texas also offers caregiver support groups that meet regularly. Licensed clinical social workers lead these meetings and help prepare caregivers. There are regular meetings at Riverbend Church, Tarrytown Methodist, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, All Saints Presbyterian Church, and more in the Austin area. These sessions will help you understand you are not alone and you can share your feelings, get valuable advice, and meet others.

AGE of Central Texas

AGE of Central Texas provides a variety of programs and services to area seniors and caregivers. They offer adult day care, caregiver education, early memory loss support, medical equipment, peer computer programs, and more. You can contact them for general information or questions at 512.451.4611 or email [email protected].

Central Texas VA Health Care

Family caregivers for senior veterans can find support through the VA for services such as:

Adult day care centers

Home-based care

Homemaker for personal care needs

Skilled home care

Respite care to give you a much-needed break

Home Telehealth to ask questions and extend care

Hospice care at home for those with advanced terminal diseases

To get started, contact the toll-free VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 855.260.3574 to see what support is available for you.

Texas Health and Human Services

The Texas Department Health and Human Services can help you find the aid you need for seniors 65 and older. They provide a range of services to help the elderly live in their homes, assist caregivers, understand government benefits, and guide you to assisted-living care. For more information, call 855.937.2372 to discuss options with a trained professional to help guide you to the service you need.